I was a security guard at a local hospital and a friend recommended me applying for a support worker vacancy. I became a support worker on a ward in a hospital and then moved over to a community-based role.

I was working in the mental health team within another organisation for 12 years, supporting young people from the ages of 14-year-old. I then moved into a fostering agency where I worked as a therapeutic worker, with care-experienced children who had suffered trauma. This experience encouraged me to work with young people as a personal advisor at PCC.

For me, it encourages young people to be part of our service and seek support. I feel it is challenging for young people to find support and become independent as they are supported with many professionals over time but reach an age when the number of professionals reduces. Supporting Your Futures Week reminds young people that support still exists through their personal advisor, as we can help with that transition and journey towards independence.

I will be joining our young people at Goals Portsmouth as part of the 5-a-side game. I have been encouraging young people to attend these events during the week as it encourages individuals to have fun and make friends. I want young people to know that even if you have had a difficult start in life, you can still go on and thrive and achieve.

I have always had a passion for supporting underserved communities. I have lived experience linked to my own personal circumstances. After university, I started a community development role as I wanted to support others to achieve their potential. I continued to work across various departments within local government for over 15 years. I have supported individuals who have experienced different traumas and those who are at risk of entering the criminal justice system. I felt my experiences would bring a different perspective to the role, enabling me to support my community.

It's important to celebrate the achievements of care-experienced people and recognise the challenges they have faced and continue to face. While young people may experience a range of disadvantages, many go on to achieve great things. It's also a chance for our team of personal advisors to share and celebrate positive milestones with them and showcase this to the local community and organisations.

We have organised activities and events, including a football tournament which encourages friendship (and a bit of healthy competition) and a celebration event at the Spinnaker Tower which was a great success last year. This week is a chance for young people to be themselves in a supportive environment.